Scabies

Scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. It is a common condition that affects people of all ages, regardless of their personal hygiene or socioeconomic status.

What is Scabies?

Scabies is caused by a tiny, burrowing mite that lives in the upper layer of the skin. The female mite lays her eggs in the skin, which hatch into larvae after 3-4 days. The larvae then mature into adult mites, which can live for up to 2 months on a human host. Scabies is highly contagious and can be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, or through indirect contact with contaminated clothing, bedding, or towels.

Symptoms of Scabies

The symptoms of scabies typically appear 4-8 weeks after the initial infestation. The most common symptoms include:

• Intense itching, especially at night
• Rash or redness on the skin, often with small bumps or blisters
• Burrows or tracks on the skin, which are caused by the mites' movement
• Small, raised spots or nodules on the skin
• Crusting or scaling of the skin

The most commonly affected areas of the body include:

• Fingers and wrists
• Elbows and armpits
• Groin area
• Navel
• Buttocks
• Feet and ankles

Treatments for Scabies

The primary treatment for scabies is a topical cream or lotion that contains permethrin, which is applied to the entire body from the neck down. Other treatments may include:

• Permethrin 5% cream: applied to the entire body from the neck down and left on for 8-14 hours before rinsing off
• Ivermectin: an oral medication that is taken in a single dose, often used for severe cases or outbreaks
• Lindane: a topical lotion or shampoo that is applied to the entire body and left on for 4-6 hours before rinsing off
• Crotamiton: a topical cream or lotion that is applied to the entire body and left on for 24 hours before rinsing off

In addition to these treatments, it is also important to:

• Wash and dry clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and high heat
• Dry-clean or seal in a plastic bag for at least 2 weeks any items that cannot be washed
• Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture, especially areas where the infected person has been
• Use a mattress cover and wash it regularly

Prevention of Scabies

To prevent scabies, it is essential to:

• Avoid direct skin-to-skin contact with anyone who has scabies
• Wash your hands frequently, especially after touching someone who has scabies
• Avoid sharing personal items, such as clothing, towels, or bedding
• Keep your home clean and tidy, including regular vacuuming and dusting
• Use a mattress cover and wash it regularly

Complications of Scabies

If left untreated, scabies can lead to several complications, including:

• Bacterial infections, such as impetigo or cellulitis
• Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (PSGN), a kidney disease
• Norwegian scabies, a severe and crusted form of the condition
• Increased risk of other skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis

Prognosis of Scabies

With proper treatment, scabies can be cured in most cases. However, it is essential to follow the treatment instructions carefully and complete the full course of treatment to ensure that all mites are eliminated. In some cases, scabies may recur if the infected person comes into contact with someone who has the condition again.